The Recycl'Art exhibition, held from September 14 to 21, 2026, at the Maison Sopi in Abidjan-Cocody, showcased the work of 18 young artists from the Institut national supérieur des arts et de l'action culturelle (INSAAC). These artists are using art to valorize waste and promote sustainability. The exhibition was organized by the association Arts'Yako, in collaboration with the Union des jeunes artistes peintres et sculpteurs de Côte d'Ivoire (UJAPEF) and the Salon des grandes cimaises d'Abidjan.
The exhibition, themed "Les nouvelles graines de la peinture ivoirienne" (The New Seeds of Ivoirian Painting), aimed to promote creativity, innovation, and the use of recycled materials in contemporary art. According to Gbedé Emile Auguste, president of Arts'Yako and an Ivoirian plastic artist, the event sought to highlight the potential of Ivoirian artists and provide them with opportunities to showcase their work. The exhibition also facilitated exchanges between collectors, art enthusiasts, cultural actors, and the general public.
The artists exhibited a range of works created from recycled materials such as plastics, metals, textiles, and discarded objects. This innovative approach to art not only showcases the creativity of the artists but also addresses the environmental challenges facing Côte d'Ivoire. The exhibition demonstrated the potential for art to contribute to sustainable development and promote eco-friendly practices.
The Ministry of Culture and Francophonie has expressed its support for the Recycl'Art initiative. Henri N'Koumo, Director of Plastic Arts at the ministry, praised the exhibition and encouraged the artists to continue their innovative work. The ministry's backing highlights the importance of art in promoting sustainable development and cultural exchange.
Arts'Yako plans to build on the success of the Recycl'Art exhibition by organizing trips to France for young Ivoirian artists. This initiative aims to provide them with international exposure and opportunities to showcase their work to a broader audience. The association, founded on November 25, 2025, seeks to promote encounters between artists, support emerging talent, and contribute to the development of Ivoirian art.
The Recycl'Art exhibition has been recognized for its innovative approach to art and sustainability. By transforming waste into art, the participating artists have demonstrated the potential for creative solutions to environmental challenges. The exhibition has also highlighted the importance of collaboration between artists, cultural institutions, and government agencies in promoting sustainable development.
The success of the Recycl'Art exhibition has sparked interest in the work of the participating artists. G.nea, an Ivoirian plastic artist, and his colleague BedyArt, a plastic artist based in France, traveled to Côte d'Ivoire to support the initiative. Their involvement reflects the growing interest in art as a tool for promoting sustainability and cultural exchange.
Key points
- The Recycl'Art exhibition showcased 18 young Ivoirian artists using recycled materials to create innovative contemporary art pieces.
- The exhibition aimed to promote creativity, innovation, and sustainable development through art.
- The event was organized by Arts'Yako, in collaboration with UJAPEF and the Salon des grandes cimaises d'Abidjan.
